The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) hosted an informational meeting on November 19, 2009, on the United States Environmental Agency’s (EPA) request that Texas provide an attainment designation recommendation for Harris County. A presentation was given and the public had an opportunity for discussion. The EPA has requested that the state’s recommendation be submitted to the EPA by February 5, 2010 (120 days after receipt of the letter). The TCEQ’s November 19, 2009 presentation can be found at http://www.tceq.state.tx.us/implementation/air/sip/Hottop.html.
The TCEQ recommends remaining attainment for the 1997 annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard for fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
The TCEQ developed its recommendation and supporting data, by considering currently available monitoring data in the Houston area from the 2006 through 2008 period. The State of Texas’ recommendation also takes into account the 2009 data, which will be certified in accordance with the EPA requirements. The TCEQ recommends that Harris County continue to be designated attainment.
Public comment period: October 30 through November 23, 2009
Anticipated approval date during the Work session: December 4, 2009
Commission’s recommendation to governor: January 5, 2010
Governor’s recommendation due to EPA: February 5, 2010
More information on the recommendations and public comments can be found by visiting: http://www7.tceq.state.tx.us/uploads/eagendas/Worksession/2009-12-04/02-PM2.5%20(Revised).pdf
